April 2008 Archives

Q. I just bought a very cute BCBG dress, but it has fall colors: oranges (light and deep), bone, and dark grey. I am wondering if I could wear such an obviously fall dress in the spring and if so what color shoes and accessories to put with it.
- Wear in Spring

A. While the dress may be darker fall colors, the whether-to-wear-now depends on the fabric. If it is not a heavy wool dress and is made of lighter fabrics then slip it on. The best way to lighten up the look for spring would be to pair it with shoes and accessories that play with the colors of the dress. Opt for light grey patent peep toes or a bright orange strappy sandal. Alternatively, look for a taupe strappy heel that you can wear with many other pieces in your wardrobe. Add bright enamel bracelets to add more color.

Q. I have a short chartreuse colored cocktail dress I am wearing to an event on Friday evening... what color shoes? Black or Gold? The color is a bright lime-y chartreuse 100% Silk.
- Very Sex In The City!

A. Go for gold or neutral strappy heels. Here are some suggestions:

1. Luichiny Primal, $73 at zappos.com
2. Charles David Cascade, $170 (sale) at zappos.com
3. Nine West Dayglow, $83 at zappos.com
4. Nine West Argent, $83 at zappos.com

Q. I can see that this issue has been addressed before, but I am wondering if a 55 year old should always wear hose to the office. Our office is pretty relaxed but "at my age" I wear stockings and wear toeless stockings with sandals and a skirt. The younger women are appalled at the site of hosiery.
- Not Care for Bare

A. If you feel more comfortable wearing hosiery then don't let the younger woman get you feeling down. Let them know their time may come when they'll want a little coverage. While I try to avoid hosiery unless it's tights in winter, I know there will come a time when my confidence with bare legs may falter and I'll want some coverage. We won't all be blessed with Tina Turner's legs later in life. Your best bet is to try to match a sheer hosiery color as close your skin tone as possible. You may have to experiment with a few styles. Look for ones that claim to be virtually invisible. And if you wear a skirt or dress that falls below the knee you may want to dare to go bare in the heat of the summer and try using a body lotion that will gradually give your skin a hint of color. Summer months can be brutal if you wear hosiery in the heat.

Q. I have this cute Shoshanna dress that I plan to wear to an outdoor spring wedding. It's an evening ceremony, so I'd like a sweater/jacket that I could throw on top in case it's a bit chilly. Any ideas? Also, I'm wondering what kind of shoes to wear - I have a cute pair of black peep toe heels, but I think I want something a bit more fun. Any suggestions? Thanks! Love reading your advice!
- Cute Seeker

A. Go for a pop of color in your heels and you'll surely strike a pose of stylish sass. Orange or hot pink heels would be ideal to give the dress punch and wear black the next time you pull on the dress and want to keep it simple. As for a jacket or cardigan, choose black or white to keep the look sophisticated. I've chosen several shapes that should work with the dress.

Get the dress: Shoshanna Geometric Print Silk Dress, $350 at nordstrom

1. Theory 'Niba - Deep' Jacket (black or white), $365 at nordstrom
2. Trina Turk 'Minx' Ponte Jacket (black or white), $298 at nordstrom
3. Two Wishes Double Breasted Linen Blend Jacket, $138 at nordstrom
4. Kenneth Cole Reaction Button Front Cardigan (black or white), $79 at nordstrom
5. Lilly Pulitzer® 'Flora' Cardigan, $148 at nordstrom

6. BCBGirls Oriana, $89 at piperlime.com
7. Pura Lopez 'K122' Sandal, $228 at nordstrom
8. Guess Footwear Jelissa, $100 at piperlime.com
9. Stuart Weitzman 'Sharp' Pump, $280 at nordstrom
10. BCBGirls Nice, $90 at piperlime.com

Q. I just got a great new pair of white jeans and now I'm at a loss as to what to wear with them.
- White Uncertain

A. At a loss? How can that be? White jeans are a classic in the Spring and Summer months and the list seems endless of what works with them. Bright polo shirts and striped belts create a preppy look, while striped tops and cropped jackets give an homage to Parisian or nautical flair. Add a button down shirt and a cotton or linen blazer and you're appropriate for casual Friday at the office and shopping chic. For night, pair your white jeans with a flirty v-neck wrap top or a shiny, silky camisole and don't forget the heels. Make sure you have your jeans hemmed as long as you can while wearing semi flats without touching the ground (nobody likes dirty whites) so you can wear low heels to high heeled wedges, strappy sandals or espadrilles.

1. Ralph Lauren Skinny Polo (10 colors), $79.50 at ralphlauren.com
2. Airy ribbon washed favorite tank (6 colors), $29.50 at jcrew.com
3. Solid cross-back tissue tank (8 colors), $48 at jcrew.com
4. Joie Flower Child Bubble Tank (2 colors), $118 at shopbop.com

Q. I love your answers to all the quandaries that people write and do peruse them for helpful hints for me for the future! My dilemma is this: we are going on a Mediterranean cruise in early June. It's a work related cruise my husband has earned. I will know some of the people but need advice/ ideas as to the formal nights. I have plenty of black, but don't really want to be taking black. I love color and wear it well. I am 4 '11 and about 118 lbs and 48. I don't want to look to matronly or too prom-ish! I am having dilemma as I haven't shopped for formalwear in a long time and need to always leave alteration time as well. Any ideas? I am eagerly awaiting your formal flair opinions! Thanks for your help.
- Formal cruise wear challenged

A. Skip the black dresses and embrace color while enjoying the view of intense blue waters. I've found several options both long and short that should make a sophisticated and stylish impression - far from prom styles. You will, however, have to visit your beloved tailor.

1. Phoebe Couture for Kay Unger V-Neck Stretch Satin Dress - Petites', $280 at bloomingdales.com
2. Pencey Sonnies Dress, $417 at shopbop.com
3. Green and Gold Ruched Gowns by BCBG MAXAZRIA, $440 at edressme.com
4. Maggy London Chiffon Gown with Charmeuse Waist, $158 at nordstrom.com

Q. I saw you on The View the other day. I'm having a hard time finding bras to fit me right. I order out of Blair's Book but I'm still not happy. I'm on the heavy side and I take a 48 DD but my bras are tight around the middle plus it's extremely hard for me to turn them around after a shower. I have crippling arthritis with deterioration of the bones. I would rather have a bra with a front closure because my hands cramp and my fingers stiffen up as well. Can you suggest a store here in St. Louis, Missouri where I can get measured? I went to JCPenny's to get fitted but the sales lady said I didn't take a double just a D. I'm not sure I believe that. I don't like under wire so if there is a brand that will fit me without one I'd be very happy.
- Larger Lady

A. I suggest you try the Playtex 18 Hour Style 4695 Front Close with Flex Back, which is wire free, has a front close with easy-to-close hooks and eyes, and comes in a 48DD. You can go to Macy's for a fitting, and they should have the product there or they can order it if they don't. Alternatively, you can order it from onehanesplace.com . Unfortunately, it only comes in white in that size (just one band size down, a 46DD, comes in Black, or up to a 44DD also comes in Beige. Hope this helps!

Q. I am a HUGE fan of your website and would love to get your advice. I will be vacationing with my fiancé's family in St. Maarten in mid-June. I have never been outside the states or to such a nice vacation spot. I do not have a clue what to wear that would be comfortable and beach-worthy. I know we will be going around sightseeing, since I am a very adventurous gal. I am in my early-twenties, petite, and looking for some great versatile pieces to wear. Any help would be greatly appreciated! And, could you find some great footwear as well?
-Beach Bummed

A. It's very simple to pack for the Caribbean. By day you'll be wearing a swimsuit, shorts, tanks and short skirts, and by night, sundresses. For shoes you'll need a good pair of flip-flops. I'm a fan of inexpensive Havianas, sandals/flats and one pair of higher heeled sandals or espadrilles. For sandals, consider a metallic pair that will match with all the dresses. And just bring along one small clutch for evening and an oversized bag for shopping and the beach. I shopped for several pieces that should fulfill many items on your packing list and they are all incredibly affordable.

1. Havaianas Flip Flops (7 colors), $16 at saks.com
2. Boutique Nordstrom 'Tabby' Sandal (5 colors), $69.95 at nordstrom.com
3. Xhilaration® Tally Strappy Wedge, $19.99 at target.com
4. Calvin Klein 'Coral' Sandal (2 colors), $89.95 at nordstrom.com
5. Steven by Steve Madden 'Casting' Thong Sandal (4 colors), $78.95 at nordstrom.com

6. Women's Mix-Print Henley Tanks, $14.50 at oldnavy.com
7. Women's Low-Rise Cuffed Twill Shorts (4 colors), $15 (sale) at oldnavy.com
8. Holly Striped Hobo (2 colors), $26.50 at delias.com
9. Women's Embroidered Keyhole Halter Dresses (2 colors), $39.50 at oldnavy.com
10. Lux Lightning Strikes Dress, $68 at urbanoutfitters.com

Q. I love your website, you have excellent fashion advice. I have a question about skinny jeans, well a few questions really! I love the look of them, but do you have to be a size 2 to pull it off? I'm a size 6/8 with a booty. What tops are best to wear with them? And what about shoes? Are flats ok? They seem to make your feet look bigger but heels aren't practical everyday.
- Skinny on Jeans

A. A girl doesn't have to be a size 2 to wear skinny jeans, but she does need to have minimal curves in order not to emphasize a triangle effect - meaning looking much bigger around hips and butt while looking skinny around the ankles. Generally a variety of top styles work, but to help slim the look, avoid billowy tops. Shoes will depend on the head to toe look. And true, flats can be tough to pull with skinny jeans. Just remember that all trends do not work for all people and you should dress in what suits your figure best.

Q. I just discovered your site today and thought perhaps you could help me. Every time I have to go to a wedding, I end up getting a long, floor length dress because I feel the need to conceal a very noticeable, three-inch-long scar right below my knee. One of my best friends is having her wedding reception outdoors at the botanical gardens in Dallas in June, however, and a dress this long would be inappropriate due to the warm weather. Could you please suggest some calf-length dresses that would be appropriate for an outdoor reception? Also, you should know that I am pear shaped, 5'3'', size 4/6 on top and 8/10 on bottom. Also because of the scar, I only wear slacks to work. Now that summer is coming, I would love a couple of suggestions on skirts and dresses that would be appropriate for work as well. Thank you in advance for all of your help!
- Just So Sick of Slacks

A. I wish I could help you unlock some confidence to bare your scar without feeling self-conscious, but until you're ready, here are a few dress options that are fresh, fun and appropriate for an outdoor garden wedding setting. They should lay fluidly over your bottom half, but you may have to get a little tailoring to have a snugger fit up top. Pair any of these with strappy, high-heeled sandals.

1. Diane von Furstenberg Naro Printed Silk Jersey Wrap Dress, $385 at bloomingdales.com
2. Alice + Olivia Belted One Shoulder Dress, $330 at shopbop.com
3. Lauren Ralph Lauren Petite Linen Sleeveless Wrap Ruffle Dress, $179 at macys.com
4. Diane von Furstenberg Tolara Dress, $365 at shopbop.com
5. Calvin Klein Petite Graphic-Print V-Neck Dress, $148 at macys.com
6. G Wheels Drapeneck Top and Sandy Starkman Printed Skirt, $79 at bloomingdales.com

Q. I am getting married in India and will be wearing a saree, which looks like this photo. I am trying to decide what kind of jewelry would look best with this. I have an antique necklace from Temple jewelry, which looks somewhat like the one below. It is a duller shade of pink and not as bright as this one. I think it will contrast well with the sari but no one agrees with me. What do you think?
- Dull or Bright

A. You're wearing a brilliant, bright saree, so why not have a big statement necklace? Just don't match earrings to the necklace. Go with gold, green or blue and keep the look fairly bold. Here are some suggestions of beautiful pieces to wear on your big day.

1. Citrine Briolette Drop Necklace, $128.80 at blueluxe.com
2. Yazza's Faux Turquoise Gold Necklace, $49 at emitations.com
3. Ayla's 60 in. Brushed Gold Plated Dangle Disc Layered Necklace, $149 at emitations.com

4. Triple Strand Swarovski Austrian Crystal Necklace, $68 at blueluxe.com
5. Flower Chain Necklace, $105 at blueluxe.com
6. White Pearl Cluster Half Moon Hoop Necklace, $86.50 at blueluxe.com

Q. I want to buy a basic black dress that I can dress up at night with pearls and cute bag/shoes. I would also like to be able to wear it to work with a jacket or cardigan. I am in my early 50's, size 14/16 and although I feel like I carry most of my weight in my hips/thighs I also have a fairly large bust area. Can you advise any items that I could purchase?
- Basic Black

A. I found several options that will work for your curvy figure and move fluidly from work to evening. They won't hug your hips and thighs and are flattering for a busty gal.

1. Goddess-inspired pleated dress, $59.50 at lanebryant.com
2. Sutton Studio Exclusive Wrap Dress - Women's, $249 at bloomingdales.com
3. Bubble-Hemmed Dress, $79 at ullapopken.com
4. Lily Cap Sleeve Faux Shrug Dress, $124 at nordstrom.com
5. Ruched Surplice Dress, $116 at kiyonna.com

Q. I'm the maid of honor (and only attendant) for an April wedding in Florida. Most of the dresses that I like have a halter-style bodice, which definitely flatters my figure. The bride's gown is also a halter-style, and neither of us is sure if my dress will complement hers, or if it will look strange for them to be so similar. She's in white, I'll be in black, her halter is smooth satin with some beading, mine would be more of gathered silk or ruched chiffon, and so the only similarity would be the basic shape. What do you think?

A. I think you'll be fine wearing the halter style. What would help distinguish them further is if your dress were cocktail length.

Q. I love reading your suggestions! I recently purchased several pairs of wide leg trouser-style pants in white, dark blue denim and a light khaki. I would like to find a pair of shoes that would look great with all of them, perhaps a metallic platform. I am 5'3" so a little height helps make my legs look longer. Please provide some suggestions. Thanks so much!
- Well Heeled in Atlanta

A. Here are a few metallic platforms including a wedge, cork, and espadrille style.

1. Roberto Cavalli T6039, $365 at zappos.com
2. Jessica Simpson 'Miles' Metallic Sandal, $78.95 at nordstrom.com
3. Ash 'Shine' T-Strap Platform Sandal, $159.95 at nordstrom.com

4. Carlos by Carlos Santana Explicit, $100 at piperlime.com
5. Athena Alexander 'Alantia' Sandal at nordstrom.com

Q. I have a question about skirt lengths. I just bought 2 amazing skirts that I just love, but I'm short and don't know if they are too long. I am 5'3" and a size 12. The first skirt is black and has beautiful embroidery on the bottom, but it's probably 5" below my knee. The second is a nice brown with embroidery also on the bottom, but is about 3" below my knee. Are these going to be too long for me? What are the guidelines on skirt lengths, not talking about mini-skirts!
-Short & Chic

A. The average woman's height in America is 5'3" so you're not alone in your confusion in finding flattering pieces. Generally, the best skirt length to give the illusion of height would be a skirt that hits around the knee. The skirt that is five inches below the knee may "shorten' you further so why not keep the 3" inch embroidered version and find a second skirt that flatters, but doesn't repeat the embroidery detail. Mix it up in your wardrobe. The best balance would be to pair it with a high heel or wedge.

Q. I need your professional expertise on my dress ensemble for a friend's upcoming 40th B-day celebration. I have attached a photo hoping it gives you a good idea. What I need is advice on shoes and accessories. The dress is a cream and gray pattern and it falls like silk.
-Friend Function

A. Try a grey patent leather sandal or peep toe heel or neutral beige, and don't get stuck on matching the hue exactly. The heels can be a little lighter or darker. I would go with a simple thin necklace that has a charm or pendant on the end as long as it lays within the "V" of the dress or choose a longer necklace that hangs about two to three inches longer than the "V." Alternatively, choose earrings that have some colored beads like blue, violet or pink and then add an enamel bracelet in a color or pattern. There are great enamel pieces available at BananaRepublic.com and JCrew.com and I'm a big fan of the charm style necklaces on blueluxe.com.

1. Seychelles Big Bucks, $84 at zappos.com
2. Nine West Revengez, $83 at zappos.com
3. MAXSTUDIO 'Ferris' Sandal, $158.95 at nordstrom.com

4. kate spade 'gwennie' pump, $295 at nordstrom.com
5. Moda Spana Demi, $93 at zappos.com
6. rsvp Liz, $65 at zappos.com

1. Cabochon-wrapped enamel bangle, $68 at jcrew.com
2. 1" enamel bangle, $35 at jcrew.com
3. Two-strand turquoise drop necklace, $49 at bananarepublic.com

4. Purple Jade, Grey Onyx, and Smoky Quartz Color Block Floating Silk Necklace, $89 at blueluxe.com
5. Rutilated quartz briolette necklace, $45 at bananarepublic.com
6. Genuine rose quartz vine earring, $59 at bananarepublic.com

Q. I'm a young college student who is in a search for an affordable dress - something fairly casual, but something that can be dressed up as well. The trouble is, I'm bottom heavy. I'm a plus size on bottom due to my thighs and hips, but nothing ever correctly fits me at the waist, which means all my skirts either sag or are a little too tight at the waist; at the top I'm usually a regular size. I fell in love with the Ruffle Cotton Dress from Boden , but am not quite sure if it would work on me. I have a decent size chest but am not a big fan of showing off my arms or my underarms. Could you help me find one?
- Right Fit

A. This dress from Boden is young, flirty and has those extra details like ruffles and the wrap style that will help to define a waist. And with the short sleeves you'll get a little coverage for the arms and under arms. Sticking with Boden, here's another dress that should work with your figure - it will lay smoothly over your hips and thighs, has the flattering v-neck and gives arm coverage. Plus, I found a similar wrap style from Banana Republic in a pretty eyelet pattern.

1. Sexy Jersey Dress, $98 at boden.com (available in 4 colors)
2. 2. Eyelet wrap dress, $140 at bananarepublic.com (available in 2 colors)

Q. I chose the attached bridesmaid dress (in latte) to wear in a wedding in May. The only instructions given by the bride were tea length dress in latte or cappuccino and sandals. The guys are wearing champagne. I am clueless as to what type and color of dress sandals to wear? If this helps, I am 5'9 with skinny legs. Truly, I'd prefer a mid-cut heel but I will definitely consider all styles.
- Color Coordination

A. Look for champagne, cream or even a pale metallic heel to wear with your dress. There always seem to be fewer stylish choices when it comes to the hunt for a special occasion lower heel. Some can border on looking too old, but I found a few pairs that look good and just skim the line on being a high heel. Stand tall and confident.

1. Vaneli Larinda, $86 at zappos.com
2. Nina Genoa-LS, $83 at zappos.com
3. Pura Lopez 'K122' Sandal, $228 at nordstrom.com
4. Mossimo® Hester Jewel Satin Strap Heels - Sand, $19.99 at target.com

Q. I have a pair of chocolate brown One True Fit pants by Lee and need to find something to wear on top for work. I was looking for something not too revealing on top. Help!
- Challenged by brown

A. I'm assuming you don't need a conservative top, just one that isn't too revealing for work. I've found several colorful options to create a richer stylish look when paired with your chocolate pants. Plus they're affordable.

1. Spotty Top, $74 at boden.com
2. Style&co. Scoop-Neck Top with Bishop Sleeves, $40 at macys.com
3. O Oscar Printed Boat-Neck Tie-Waist Blouse, $89 at macys.com

4. Python-print cardigan, $95 at jcrew.com
5. Worthington® Pintuck Blouse, $30 at jcpenney.com

Q. I attend a college where all ladies are required to wear hosiery and skirts to classes. My problem is, I'm allergic! I've tried different types of hosiery and none work for me. I took a doctor's order to the dean of women, but she confiscated it and told me I would have to wear hose anyway. She suggested I wear knee-highs and long skirts, but I miss all my knee-length skirts! I tried Sally Hansen's Airbrush Legs and got away with it for several weeks, but every bottle I've used has broken before I get through half of it! I have tried tanning, but I just burn over and over; it never turns into a tan. I've also tried many self-tanners, but they leave me very orange, or with streaks around my ankles. As a college student, I'm on a very tight budget. Can you give me some cheap options that look like hosiery that won't have me breaking out in hives?
- No hose, please!

A. Get another note from your doctor, in fact get two notes and ask for a sit down meeting with your dean. Tell her that you wish to resolve this and perhaps there is way to set a hem length requirement without you having to ditch half your skirt wardrobe. And ask your dermatologist what is the ingredient/material in the hosiery that is causing the allergic reaction so you are better informed when possibly having to do a new search. Plus, you should be contacting customer service at Sally Hansen to let them know of your breaking can debacle.

Q. Forty and fabulous, or at least that's what I'm feeling. My 40th birthday is coming up and I need help finding a dress that will wow them at my party. It will be a mix of family and friends and I don't want boring or brown. I am petite; a bit apple shaped and am large breasted. I have been uninspired by my recent shopping expeditions so I need some suggestions.
- Fab for 40

A. Girl, there's plenty of gorgeous dresses out there that will flatter your figure and make a grand entrance. And these picks are offered in petite styles.

1. Maggy London Chiffon Dress, $150 at nordstrom.com
2. JS Boutique Embellished Matte Jersey Halter Dress, $158 at nordstrom.com
3. Phoebe Couture for Kay Unger V-Neck Stretch Satin Dress - Petites', $280 at bloomingdales

4. Maggy London Silk Chiffon Halter Dress, $148 at nordstrom.com
5. Acetate Interlock Dress, $180 at bcbg.com

Q. I am looking for some cool gold sandals for summer. I could use a pair of heels (preferably under 3 inches) and a pair of flats to dress down cute summer dresses.
-Shine On

A. Enjoy the warm weather when you step out in these shiny gold sandals.

Heels:
1. Claudia Ciuti 'Tulipano' Sandal, $350 at nordstrom.com
2. Stuart Weitzman 'Delovely' Sandal, $255 at nordstrom.com
3. Nine West Accolia, $69 at piperlime.com
4. Charles by Charles David Pandora, $100 at piperlime.com
5. J. Reneé 'Melina' Sandal, $84.95 at nordstrom.com

Flats:
1. Diane von Furstenberg 'Molto' Sandal, $265 at nordstrom.com
2. Athena Alexander 'Audra' Sandal, $99.95 at nordstrom.com
3. Jessica Simpson Caralie, $6. at piperlime.com
4. daniblack Greet, $135 at piperlime.com
5. MICHAEL Michael Kors 'Tabitha' Metallic Thong, $97.95 at nordstrom.com